FEATURED

We are delighted to welcome the Great Tapestry of Scotland to Stirling Castle as part of its national tour. It is officially the largest embroidered tapestry in the world and tells the story of Scotland’s history.

Festive fun and music at the castle

This year, why not celebrate Christmas in style by joining the festivities at the capital’s most stunning landmark - Edinburgh Castle.

The majestic surroundings of Scotland’s best-loved stronghold provide a truly magnificent setting for two special festive events designed to delight all ages.

‘Christmas at the Castle’ - on Sunday, 7th December from 12.30 to 3.30pm - promises an afternoon of family fun, packed with seasonal merriment, magic and music.

The superb yuletide entertainment in store includes a specially-commissioned festive comedy show, and a magical Father Christmas - who’ll be sharing some of the special tricks he has up his sleeves. The programme also features another children’s favourite, a puppet performance. And talented group ‘The Swingin’ Santas’ will be on hand to get everyone in the festive mood with some great live music.

Music is the focus of another festive highlight at the Castle: ‘Christmas Carols In The Great Hall’, on Sunday 14th December, at 1.00, 2.00 and 3.00pm. Historic Scotland is delighted to present Edinburgh Grand Opera performing in the Castle’s magnificent 16th century banqueting hall – once the nation’s chief place of ceremony and state assembly. Come and sing along to all your favourite carols in this relaxed musical afternoon. And the amazing accoustics of the Great Hall’s original hammerbeam roof should ensure this unique concert is a memorable experience.

Historic Scotland Events Manager Nick Finnigan said: “Edinburgh Castle is a wonderful venue for events at any time of the year, and Christmas is particularly special. There’s no better place to celebrate the magic of the festive season than here, at Scotland’s most spectacular stronghold, and our family fun event and carol concert should help everyone experience the spirit of the season and enjoy a superb Christmas.”

‘Christmas at the Castle’ and ‘Christmas Carols In The Great Hall’ are both free events, included in the normal price of admission to Edinburgh Castle. Off Peak Season (Nov – Feb) ticket prices are: adult: £10.00; child: £5.00; concession: £7.00; Historic Scotland members: free. Tickets can be bought in advance by visiting the Edinburgh Castle website: www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk

NOTES FOR EDITORS
Edinburgh Castle’s top attractions are:

The Honours of Scotland – the nation’s crown jewels.

The Stone of Destiny – the coronation stone of the ancient kings of Scots.

The Great Hall, Laich Hall, King’s Dining Room and St Margaret’s Chapel - some of the remarkable medieval rooms and buildings where kings, queens and great nobles wined, dined and worshipped.

The Prisons of War Experience – thousands of military prisoners were held in the castle over the centuries. There is now a major recreation of what it was like at the end of the 18th century when men of many nations languished in its vaults.

The Scottish National War Memorial - an impressive building commemorating those who have died in conflict from World War I onwards. There are also three military museums at the castle.

The One O’clock Gun – fired daily, except the Sabbath and certain holidays, as a time signal.

The Dog Cemetery – the last resting place of regimental mascots and the faithful friends of many officers.

Edinburgh Castle is one of 345 outstanding historic properties and sites throughout the country in the care of Historic Scotland. These include some of Scotland’s leading tourism attractions and most important heritage sites, including (in addition to Edinburgh Castle), Stirling and Urquhart Castles, Fort George, Linlithgow Palace, the Border Abbeys, and Skara Brae. For details visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/places

Historic Scotland’s Mission is: to safeguard Scotland’s historic environment and to promote its understanding and enjoyment.

Historic Scotland is delighted to be supporting the 2009 Year Of Homecoming with a series of initiatives including family trails, spectacular events and the creation of a Homecoming Pass for heritage attractions in association with the other heritage organisations.
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